Mar. 4, 2013

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A: 2,000 slot machines, 87 gambling tables, a 31-table World Series of Poker Room. Also: six sit-down restaurants; a five-story, 2,500-spot parking garage; a gift shop; 33,000 square feet of meeting space; and a one-acre urban event plaza that will be used for entertainment and special events.

A: It’s at 1000 Broadway St. at the corners of Reading Road, Sycamore Street and Court Street. The casino is off both Interstates 71 and 471.

Q: Where can I park?

A: Starting Tuesday at 6 a.m., you can park at the casino’s five-story parking garage with 2,500 spaces. The self-parking entrances are off Gilbert Avenue north of Court Street and on Reading Road at the 12th Street intersection.

Q: What does it cost to park?

A: During weekdays, hourly parking is $1 per hour up to a maximum $14. Parking is free from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weekdays and over weekends, except during special events. Casino loyalty card members who play 30 minutes of slots or tables or 60 minutes in the poker room will get free parking. Valet parking is $20.

Q: Is it safe down there?

A: Five public and private agencies are policing the complex and surrounding streets. The casino has its own staff of 104 unarmed officers, led by former Assistant Police Chief Richard Janke.

Q: Is there a cover charge to get into the casino?

A: No.

Q: Is there an age restriction?

A: Yes, you must be 21 or older to play on the casino floor. Underage individuals with an adult chaperone may walk through the casino floor on designated paths to get to and from the restaurants.

Q: Can people under 18 eat at the restaurants?

A: Yes.

Q: Is smoking allowed?

A: Smoking is prohibited throughout the casino complex except on four designated outdoor smoking terraces. Ohio law bans indoor smoking.

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Q: Are security personnel really hidden in the ceiling watching every move?

A: Cameras are. More than 1,000 cameras are on the property, including one for each table and slot machine. Surveillance teams will electronically monitor the cameras. Also, the Ohio Casino Control Commission will have a dozen undercover agents roaming the floor looking for cheats.

A: Total Rewards is casino operator Caesars Entertainment’s loyalty card program. Under the program, members accumulate points for play and other purchases at the Horseshoe and other casinos, which can be redeemed for additional free play, free or discounted meals and hotel stays.

Q: What else is there to do nearby Downtown?

A: Dozens of restaurants at various cost levels are within walking distance of the casino, including eateries on Main and Vine streets in Over-the-Rhine as well as along Sixth Street downtown.